First Baptist Dallas, one of the oldest churches in America, is christening a new campus on Easter Sunday. The state-of-the-art $130 million facility spans five city blocks. Construction began in 2009 and officially ends with the grand opening ceremony on March 31.
The 500,000-square-foot campus includes a glass-walled sky bridge that connects the worship center and the Horner Family Center, which houses a gym, classrooms, three indoor playgrounds and a seven-story parking garage.
Pastor Robert Jeffress is at the helm of the historic church, which boasts 11,000 members. Jeffress is a frequent guest on The O'Reilly Factor and has also appeared on Good Morning America and Real Time With Bill Maher. He's made headlines in the past for his positions on homosexuality, Mormonism and Islam.
“For more than 140 years — through cycles of both decline and growth — First Baptist has been steadfastly committed to the city of Dallas,” Jeffress said in a statement. “That dedication continues through this contribution of what we believe is the finest facility in the heart of downtown — a concert hall of worship that truly represents, and is dedicated to, the greatness of God.”
Designed by the The Beck Group, the entire campus is expected to attain silver certification by the LEED Green Building Rating System.
First Baptist Dallas christens its new campus on Easter Sunday.
